North and South Korea’s New Missile-Launching Submarines: A Closer Look

Introduction

North and South Korea have recently revealed their new missile-launching submarines, marking a significant development in the ongoing missile race between the two countries. These submarines, equipped with advanced capabilities, reflect both sides' pursuit of a second-strike or secure pre-emptive strike capability. In this article, we will delve into the details of these submarines and explore their impact on the naval balance in the Korean peninsula.

North Korea's Submarine No. 841 Hero Kim Kun Ok

North Korea's new submarine, named Submarine No. 841 and referred to as "Hero Kim Kun Ok," is the country's second diesel-electric ballistic-missile submarine (SSB). While the first SSB was launched in 2014 as a testing platform, Submarine No. 841 represents a significant advancement. Construction of this submarine is believed to have started in 2016, and it has undergone extensive modifications since 2019.

The dimensions of Submarine No. 841 are estimated to be 282 feet in length, 21 feet in width, and a submerged displacement of 1,830 tons. It features a new missile compartment in the sail with two rows of five vertical-launch cells. The submarine has been equipped with additional features, including a lengthened hull, a rounded and slightly widened bow, and repositioned bow diving planes.

While the exact arsenal of Submarine No. 841 remains undisclosed, North Korea has previously developed and tested three sub-launched ballistic missiles: the Pukguksong-1, Pukguksong-3, and an unnamed model resembling the KN-23 short-range ballistic missile. The submarine's launch cells can likely accommodate both ballistic missiles and submarine-launched cruise missiles, enhancing North Korea's strike power.

It is noteworthy that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has categorized the SSB as a "tactical nuclear attack submarine," indicating its intended use for military targets in the vicinity rather than distant strategic targets.

South Korea's Dosan Ahn Changho Class

South Korea's approach to the SSB is the Dosan Ahn Changho-class, officially known as the KSS-III. This domestically-built submarine class is the largest in South Korea, with a displacement of over 3,000 tons. The design of the Dosan Ahn Changho-class incorporates elements from South Korea's previous submarine models, the Jang Bogo and Son Won-Il classes.

The lead submarine of the Dosan Ahn Changho-class, ROKS Dosan Ahn Changho, was launched in 2018. It boasts a length of 273 feet, a width of 31 feet, and a crew capacity of 50. This sophisticated submarine features optronic masts, an air-independent propulsion system, and advanced sonar systems. Additionally, it is equipped with anechoic tiles, a unique characteristic for non-nuclear-powered submarines.

ROKS Dosan Ahn Changho is armed with six torpedo tubes at the bow and six vertical-launch cells at the rear of the sail. These cells can house either six Hyunmoo-4-4 ballistic missiles or six Hyunmoo-3 cruise missiles. South Korea plans to commission nine Dosan Ahn Changho-class submarines in three batches, with the later batches featuring improvements such as increased vertical-launch tubes and longer-lasting lithium-ion batteries.

South Korea is also exploring the possibility of upgrading future Dosan Ahn Changho-class vessels by incorporating a new vertical-launch system and potentially developing a nuclear-powered variant. The country is even considering exporting these submarines to nations like India, Poland, and Canada.

The Strategic Significance

The pursuit of sub-launched ballistic missiles and the corresponding submarines by both North and South Korea is driven by their desire for a second-strike or secure pre-emptive strike capability. These submarines aim to provide a less vulnerable platform against potential attacks from the opposing side's artillery, aircraft, and missiles.

However, experts raise concerns about the actual capabilities of North Korea's Submarine No. 841 Hero Kim Kun Ok. Being a retrofit of a 1950s-era Romeo-class attack sub, it may face disadvantages against modern anti-submarine weapons. The extensive modifications made to the submarine raise questions about its stability and operational effectiveness. Moreover, it is likely to have limitations in terms of speed and endurance.

Nevertheless, the production of another nuclear launch platform by North Korea, combined with its progress in miniaturizing warheads, poses an increased threat to its neighbors. South Korea acknowledges the need for prudent planning and considers the possibility of nuclear armaments on these submarines.

Conclusion

The unveiling of North Korea's Submarine No. 841 Hero Kim Kun Ok and South Korea's Dosan Ahn Changho-class submarines marks a significant development in the naval balance on the Korean peninsula. These submarines represent each country's pursuit of advanced missile-launching capabilities. While the actual capabilities of North Korea's submarine remain uncertain, its production signifies a growing threat. South Korea, on the other hand, continues to enhance its submarine fleet with advanced features and future possibilities. As the missile race continues, the strategic implications of these submarines will shape the regional security landscape.—————————————————————————————————————————————
By: insider@insider.com (Benjamin Brimelow)
Title: North and South Korea’s New Missile-Launching Submarines: A Closer Look
Sourced From: www.businessinsider.com/how-new-north-and-south-korean-missile-submarines-compare-2023-12
Published Date: Wed, 06 Dec 2023 23:23:02 +0000